Albums We Love - 2026
By RecordStore Staff - February 09, 2026
Whether you’re a lifelong crate-digger or a newcomer looking for that 1st perfect spin, there’s a special kind of magic in the “Albums We Love” collection. It’s not just a list of bestsellers; it’s a curated love letter to the records that define our speakers and our spirits.
Not every love story looks the same. Some records just hit, and these are the albums we keep returning to again and again… and again. From exclusive pressings to timeless classics, here’s why we’re obsessed with this collection—and why your turntable needs these right now.
Explore our collection of essential albums that shine in every record collection.
1. The Modern Icons: Pop & Soul That Stays With You
The collection is anchored by the voices of today that are already becoming tomorrow’s legends. Take Olivia Dean, for instance. Her album The Art of Loving is a masterclass in contemporary soul, and having it on vinyl captures every warm, intimate nuance of her voice.
If you're looking for something with a bit more grit and storytelling, Lola Young’s I’m Only F**king Myself(especially in that Marble vinyl) is a raw, unapologetic journey that feels like a private conversation between you and the artist.
2. The Heavy Hitters: Hip-Hop & High Energy
For the fans of beats that shake the floorboards, the collection doesn't miss. Kendrick Lamar’s To Pimp A Butterfly is a essential for any serious collector—a reminder of why he’s one of the greatest lyricists of our generation.
And if you want a visual feast to match the audio, the ABBA's Happy New Year: 7" Zoetrope vinyl is a literal work of art. Watching the animation spin while the music plays is the kind of tactile experience that streaming just can't touch.
3. Why We Love These Albums
The beauty of this category is the variety. You can jump from the punk-inflected pop of SUM41 to the legendary ABBA in a single click. It’s a collection that celebrates the "physical" in physical media—the gatefold sleeves, the coloured wax, and the intentional act of sitting down and listening to an album from start to finish.
Ready to find your next obsession? Whether it’s a boxset edition from Metallica or a gorgeous splatter vinyl from Niall Horan, these are the records we keep coming back to. Scroll through the products below or....